Perforant path
Perforant Path
The Perforant Path (pronounced: per-fo-rant path) is a projection of neurons from the lateral entorhinal cortex to the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus. It is one of the major pathways into the hippocampus, and is critically involved in processes of memory and learning.
Etymology
The term "Perforant Path" is derived from the Latin word 'perforare', which means 'to pierce'. This is in reference to the way these neurons pierce through the subiculum and other layers of the hippocampus to reach the dentate gyrus.
Function
The Perforant Path is responsible for transmitting information from the entorhinal cortex to the hippocampus. This pathway is crucial for the encoding and retrieval of spatial memory, and is also involved in the process of long-term potentiation, a key mechanism in memory storage.
Related Terms
- Entorhinal Cortex: The region of the brain that provides the major input and output for the hippocampus. It plays a key role in memory and navigation.
- Dentate Gyrus: A part of the hippocampus that receives inputs from the entorhinal cortex via the Perforant Path. It is involved in the formation of new episodic memories, the spontaneous exploration of novel environments, and other functions.
- Hippocampus: A part of the brain that plays important roles in the consolidation of information from short-term memory to long-term memory, and in spatial memory that enables navigation.
- Spatial Memory: A form of memory responsible for recording information about one's environment and spatial orientation.
- Long-Term Potentiation: A long-lasting enhancement in signal transmission between two neurons that results from stimulating them synchronously.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Perforant path
- Wikipedia's article - Perforant path
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